Paperman Media ( Bhubaneswar )- The Indian Water Works Association (IWWA), Odisha Centre, in collaboration with engineers from PHED, WATCO and OWSSB, celebrated World Environment Day 2026 by organizing a tree plantation programme at the Odisha Urban Academy premises in Bhubaneswar.
Organized under this year's global theme, "Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future," the initiative aimed to promote environmental conservation, enhance green cover, and create greater awareness on water security, climate resilience and sustainable development.
The plantation drive was led by Er. Hadibandhu Behera, President, IWWA Odisha Centre, and Er. Bilas Kumar Behera, Secretary. Er. Basant Kumar Parida, General Secretary, IWWA Odisha Centre, also attended the programme and emphasized the importance of collective action in safeguarding the environment and conserving precious water resources.
Veteran engineer and former Engineer-in-Chief, Er. Satyendra Mohan Patnaik, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he underlined the critical role of engineers in protecting natural resources and promoting sustainable development. He observed that environmental degradation and pollution are long-term challenges that cannot be addressed merely through annual observances or symbolic activities. Instead, he stressed the need for sustained and practical action at both individual and societal levels to ensure a healthier and greener future.
Several senior engineers and water sector experts participated in the event, including WATCO Managing Director Er. Debabrata Mohanty, who encouraged young professionals to adopt environmentally responsible practices in their personal and professional lives.
As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, IWWA Odisha Centre announced an ambitious green initiative to undertake large-scale plantation drives across educational institutions and government establishments in the coming years. The plantation at Odisha Urban Academy marked the first phase of this campaign.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by all participants to continue promoting eco-friendly practices and environmental awareness across Odisha, contributing towards a greener, cleaner and more sustainable future for generations to come.
